Fall 2018 JBU Brown Bulletin by John Brown University

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Monumental Markers of God's Blessings God's Faithfulness Evidenced Throughout History

Let us first rejoice in the way God has used this institution to change the lives of its 22,000 alumni that have come through our doors.

Dear Friends of JBU, In Scripture, the people of God often marked a significant event by building an “Ebenezer,” a stone to commemorate a significant work of God in the life of the community or an individual. When the men of Israel defeated the Philistines in 1 Samuel, Scripture records that “Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us’” (1 Samuel 7:12). Similarly, after Jacob has the dream in which the angels ascend and descend from heaven and the Lord renews his covenant with him, Jacob erects a stone pillar to remember the event and says, “Surely the Lord is in this place” (Genesis 28:16). JBU has also had its Ebenezers throughout its history, and we will remember many of them in our Centennial celebrations over the next year. On July 23, 1919, after a restless night of sleep, John Brown Sr. determined to launch a new school, and by Sept. 29, 1919, he had built Southwestern Hall, hired 10 faculty and had 70 students. By 1922, the university had constructed the first part of J. Alvin Brown Hall, and by 1927, California Dorm was completed. JBU’s beginnings were surely only possible through God’s amazing work on our behalf. Moreover, the construction of the Cathedral Group from 1945 to 1957 was certainly another Ebenezer in the history of JBU, as we created space for a library, science hall and place of worship. We have also just been through a period of great expansion in facilities with over 20 major building projects completed in the last 18 years, none of which would have been possible without God’s favor and the generosity of his people. Everywhere we look on campus, we see Ebenezers, evidence of God’s faithfulness to JBU over its last 100 years, and we give thanks. We are studying 1 Peter in chapel this fall, and Peter reminds us that the true Ebenezers, the true markers of God’s blessing, are not the ones made out of stone or brick but the ones found in the transformation that occurs in our lives through God’s grace. Peter tells us that we are “living stones, ... being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood” (1 Peter 2:5). As we come to celebrate JBU’s Centennial, let us first rejoice in the way God has used this institution to change the lives of its 22,000 alumni that have come through our doors. Because of those “living stones,” we can say with Samuel that “thus far God has helped us” and with Jacob “surely the Lord is in this place.” May it always be true of us at JBU. Join us in JBU’s Centennial celebration this year. We look forward to seeing you. Godspeed,

Dr. Charles W. Pollard President, John Brown University

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Transformed Lives Whenever I interview an alum for a feature story, I always make sure to ask, “Why did you decide to attend JBU?” I find the answers to this question fascinating. Some chose JBU because a family member attended, because it was affordable, because they received scholarships, because it was close to home or because it felt like home. As the answer varies from person to person, alumni typically don’t choose JBU for one reason alone, but a collection of many. For me, it was learning about JBU from an admissions counselor who visited my high school, then opening up a promising scholarship and financial aid package and lastly touring JBU during a campus visit. No matter what our journeys to JBU look like, the significant aspect of our stories lie in how attending JBU molded us postgrad—in our relationships, careers and spiritual lives. Looking back, I’ve made lifelong friendships, I’ve met people from all over the world who hold powerful testimonies, I’ve gained skills to be successful in my profession, and I’ve grown closer in my faith with the Lord. In 2019, we are entering into a year of jubilee, celebrating a century of existence, a century of Christ Over All, a century of Head, Heart, Hand and a century of JBU playing a transformative role in thousands of students. Celebrate with us!

COVER FEATURE: Centennial Celebration 14

The celebration of JBU’s milestone birthday will be a year of events including a four-day Homecoming, opening the time capsule, a celebration concert and more.

Look back on 100 major moments in JBU's 100 year history.

Yearlong Celebration

“Christ Over All” Excerpt Tarah Thomas ’16 Managing Editor, Brown Bulletin

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Read a sneak peek of JBU’s new history book, “Christ Over All: A History of John Brown University.”

Significant Moments From 1919 to Present

Then and Now Discover the changes JBU has seen from a farm in 1919 to its 200-acre campus.

CONTENTS

FALL 2018 The Brown Bulletin is published by University Communications for alumni and friends of JBU. jbu.edu/bulletin

PRESIDENT

Dr. Chip Pollard VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT

Dr. Jim Krall EDITOR AND DIRECTOR OF UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS

Julie Gumm ’95 MANAGING EDITOR

Tarah Thomas ’16 COVER DESIGN

Kelly Saunders ’12 LAYOUT DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION

Gabrielle Marcy ’17, Kelly Saunders ’12 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jon Schultz ’19, April Moreton, Caroline White ’21, Callie Owensby ’20, Megan Koontz ’19

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Logan Craine ’19, Emily Auel ’19, Rachel Hustedde ’20, Kelly Saunders ’12, Spencer Theobald ’21, Kaitlyn Thompson ’15

JBU News

SUPPORT

Three Generations of Alumni

Staff Spotlight: Scott Wanzer

Three generations of the Siemens family have spanned more than half of JBU's history.

10 Track and Field Returns

Marikit Schwartz Fain ’05, Sherry Miller ’75, Sonya Price, Nicholas Robinson

12 Campaign for the Next Century Update

34 Alumni Awards and Updates

FEATURES 28

Homecoming Highlights Homecoming highlighted the visual arts program at The Showcase, included the 5K Glow Run and the Alumni Breakfast, and dedicated the Mayfield Residence Hall and the Peer-Andrus Studio and Project Barn.

30 Homecoming

COPY EDITING

Paul T. Semones ’99, Andy Klungland ’97, Jay Nickel

37 In Memoriam

Submit news items, story ideas, letters and

40 From the Editor

corrections to jgumm@jbu.edu or via U.S. Postal Service to:

CONNECT

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Instagram: instagram.com/johnbrownuniversity Twitter: twitter.com/johnbrownuniv Give Online: jbu.edu/giveonline

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JBU NOW

Campus News Peer-Andrus Studio and Project Barn Dedicated The newly-opened Peer-Andrus Studio and Project Barn was dedicated on Oct. 4. At the dedication, Charles Peer, retired professor of visual arts, and Dave Andrus, professor of visual arts, unveiled their own artwork that will be hung in the entryway of the building. The building is named after Peer and Andrus, who founded JBU’s visual arts program in 1990. The 16,800-square-foot facility provides essential studio and project space for art and engineering students. The building is divided into two sections: the art section includes a space for commercial photography and video shoots, a wood shop and three large project areas, and the engineering section includes one large project area with 17 flexible workstations for engineering students. 02

Merrick Earns First Place in National Singing Competition Luke Merrick, senior music major, earned first place among 140 students in the Upper College/Independent Studio Men category at the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) 2018 National Student Auditions (NSA). While JBU’s music students regularly participate in NATS singing competitions at the state, and more recently, the regional level, Merrick’s entry into NSA marks the first time a JBU student has ever participated and placed nationally. 01

JBU Advances to No. 13 in U.S. News Best in South Rankings

JBU Named ‘2018 Great College to Work For’

In the 2019 U.S. News & World Report Best Regional Universities ranking, JBU ranked 13th out of 141 southern universities, advancing four places from last year. This

The Great Colleges to Work For survey named JBU as one of the best colleges to work for in the nation for the fourth consecutive year. Nationally, JBU is among

marks the third consecutive year JBU is the top-ranked Arkansas school in its cohort. JBU was also recognized as a “Best Value School,” listed among the “A+ Schools for B Students,” “Most Innovative Schools,” “Best Undergraduate Teaching Programs” and named a top-10 “Best Colleges for Veterans” institution in its category. JBU was ranked No. 2 in Arkansas by the Wall Street Journal and has been named the top school in Arkansas by Money Magazine.

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only 84 colleges who received the "Great College to Work For" recognition and among 43 institutions with the Honor Roll distinction for being recognized in four or more categories, placing top 10 within the small enrollment size category.

Alumni Reflect on Service in the Vietnam War Alumni Doug Chamberlain ’64, Mike Bryant ’71 and Ronald Maines ’67 shared their experiences serving in the Vietnam War as combat veterans of the U.S. Marine Corps. Titled “The Vietnam War: A Discussion with JBU Alumni Who Served,” the event included their reflections on the war 50 years later, followed by closing remarks from former President John Brown III. View the broadcast at on.jbu.edu/2yjKHdp.

The Alumni Welcome Center Opens The Alumni Welcome Center opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Oct. 5. The center serves as a hospitality hub for visiting alumni and also houses the Alumni and Parent Relations staff as well as University Archives, which collects, preserves and documents artifacts associated with JBU’s founding and development. The center is housed in the former JBU president’s house, built by John Brown Jr. during his tenure between 1948 to 1979. In 2007, the JBU Honors Scholars Program

moved into the residence, and it served as the Honors Center until undergoing a renovation this year. For the first time in university history, alumni have a dedicated gathering space for events such as homecoming, as well as board meetings and impromptu campus visits. 05

Mutiny FX and JBU Partner on Motion Graphics Course Kyle Agee, assistant professor of visual arts, and Dustin Solomon, founder and CEO of Bentonville-based Mutiny FX, partnered to offer a new course, Motion Graphics, as part of JBU’s visual arts program. Agee and Solomon, both JBU alumni, strove to expand the skillset of JBU students who are studying digital cinema and graphic design with additional knowledge in visual effects. The class, which began this fall semester, addresses a need for education and talent in the growing field, while increasing students’ skills in non-cinematic virtual effects, building 3D space and point tracking.

Nursing Program Earns Accreditation The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program has received full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, a national nursing accrediting

agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and received full approval from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing to prepare nurse candidates for licensure.

Blasi Named IEEE PES Scholar Melissa Blasi, a junior engineering major, was named an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Power and Energy Society scholar, a competitive and internationally recognized scholarship that awards scholars up to $7,000 over three years. IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization, also connects scholars with its partners for internships to grow professionally and become leaders in the field of energy. 04

Williams Named Walton International Scholarship Program Director Alumnus Gabriel Williams ’04 is the new director of JBU’s Walton International Scholarship Program (WISP). Williams will recruit and advise prospective WISP students and support current WISP students through their studies until completion of their program requirements. Williams will be the fourth director to govern WISP. Ron Johnson was the director

for over 20 years before passing away in December 2017. 03

JBU Online Offers RN to BSN Program JBU Online will launch the online RN to BSN program this spring to create a path for registered nurses to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. With an emphasis on evidence-based practice, ethical leadership and holistic health, JBU Online’s RN to BSN program equips students for management roles and establishes an academic foundation for graduate studies.

JBU Athletics Adds Track & Field JBU’s NAIA Intercollegiate men’s and women’s track and field program will launch beginning fall 2019. During its nearly 100year history, JBU had an intercollegiate track and field team from the 1960s to 1980s. The new program will be under the direction of Coach Scott Schochler, who has led JBU’s cross-country team since 2013. JBU and the Siloam Springs School District will partner to renovate and share the use of the track and field facilities at Siloam Springs Middle School, located a half mile from the university. (See story on pg. 10.)

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STAFF SPOTLIGHT Scott Wanzer became JBU campus safety director in 2011 after serving 27 years as a ranked officer for the Tulsa Police Department. As an administrator, Wanzer supervises nine campus safety officers and oversees daily field issues that include calls about disturbance or suspicious persons. In a profession faced with the dark side of humanity that often focuses on peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wrongdoings, Wanzer believes his duty extends further than keeping students, faculty and staff safe. He believes in the well-being of their spiritual lives as children of God who are called to honor and glorify God in everything they do.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT WHAT ARE THE GREATEST CHALLENGES OF THIS POSITION?

1. K eeping the community vigilant — I’ve seen a lot of ugly scenes, so I know the potential of a situation. I want people to continue to be mindful about their surroundings without alarming them or creating fear. 2. Gaining cooperation vs. compliance — Municipal police officers don’t have time for cooperation; they want compliance, which is impersonal and can be forceful. It takes more time to talk or connect with a person to gain cooperation. I don’t just want compliance, I want cooperation, which can be a challenge. But it’s worth the effort. 3. Staffing — Obviously the more campus safety officers we have the easier our job is. But we don’t want to unnecessarily burden the budget and students' tuition. It’s a delicate balance.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN A CAMPUS SAFETY OFFICER AND A MUNICIPAL POLICE OFFICER?

WHAT ARE THREE SAFETY TIPS YOU HAVE FOR JBU STUDENTS?

WHAT ARE THE REWARDS OF BEING IN THIS POSITION?

1. Have personal awareness — Pay attention to your surroundings, be wise and use caution. 2. Don’t go alone; go with someone — There’s safety in numbers. 3. Mentally rehearse or role-play a situation — Ask yourself those "what-if" questions; think about how you might handle a situation.

1. Seeing students grow and mature. 2. Watching our community take care of each other and keep each other safe. 3. Personally, being able to be a part of this community.

WHAT ARE THREE THINGS THAT BRING YOU JOY?

1. Spending time with my family. 2. Seeing people connecting and growing with the Lord. 3. Having formative conversations with students.

1. Unfortunately, many contacts with police officers have a negative context, such as being a victim of a crime or getting a ticket. That can influence people’s perception of contact with a campus safety officer, but we are able to have a more enjoyable role here in our campus community. 2. Over the last seven years, we have not initiated physical custody of anyone. However, municipal police officers do on a regular basis. 3. Because we are a private entity, we don’t have roles or duties that municipal police officers are mandated to perform.

WHAT ARE THREE PRINCIPLES YOU WANT TO INSTILL IN STUDENTS?

1. Stickman Theology — It’s so easy for us to do things in our own flesh and strength and to try harder. God wants us to do things with him. 2. Presence/Pray without ceasing — Praying isn’t just talking and listening, but it’s being present with God at all times. 3. Transformation — Our motive of obedience to Scripture needs to come from a transformed heart. As we spend time with the Lord through the word, prayer and community, we become more like Christ.

SCOTT

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PROJECT SPACE FOR INNOVATION: The engineering section of the PeerAndrus Studio and Project Barn has given students the much-needed space to build and test a variety of projects. The large project area with 17 flexible workstations enables students to work on designs from model airplanes and wind turbine blades to a mining robot built to drill and extract Martian rock samples in NASAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual competition. In addition, the open-concept facility creates a communal environment for students to host events, study for tests together and produce innovative ideas.

ATHLETICS

1960s

Barry Washington 1975/1976

Paul Egnor 1932

First Presidential Road Run November 1979

1960s

1975/1976

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JBU Track & Field Returns New Athletic Program Partners with Siloam Springs School District Perry Shellito 1968

1960s

For the 2019-2020 athletic season, JBU will welcome back men’s and women’s track and field as an NAIA intercollegiate sport, increasing the number of JBU athletic programs to 11. Under the direction of current men’s and women’s cross-country head coach Scott Schochler, JBU will start recruiting this year and hopes to recruit 15 new student-athletes for the 2019 season. Schochler has led JBU’s cross-country team since 2013. He coached Annie Brown ’17 to a spot in the 2015 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field National Championships marathon and helped senior Josh Uzelac make appearances in three consecutive NAIA National Championships. “I am extremely excited and grateful to have the opportunity to bring track and field back to JBU and contribute to its legacy,” Schochler said. “This is an opportunity I have been hoping for since I came to JBU. I hope to continue the process of building this program, along with cross-country, into very competitive teams that represent the university and the Golden Eagles well. It is a great time to be a JBU Golden Eagle.” “We believe track and field is an excellent addition to our current athletic offerings,” Robyn Daugherty, JBU director of athletics, said. “Track and field brings a program for both men and women with healthy roster sizes, and one that complements our existing cross country programs.” During its nearly 100-year history, JBU offered men’s track and field over a period of three decades, from the 1960s through the 1980s, and the women’s track and field program was active from the mid 1970s through the early 1980s. Jim Pearson, Cliff Crowder, Leo Setian, Don Cleek, Ed Renfrow and Roger Vann, who won back-to-back NAIA All-American honors in the marathon in 1975 and 1976, the latter of which

earned the national title, not only supported the program but also have trained many athletes to win titles in prior decades. The grass track around Alumni Field was at one time the home of JBU track and field, but now JBU will partner with the Siloam Springs School District to renovate and provide shared use of Glenn W. Black Stadium, the track and field facility located a half mile from campus at Siloam Springs Middle School. Under the partnership, JBU will cover 50 percent of the cost of the track renovation, up to $400,000. The first priority will be to rebuild the track subsurface and install a higher-quality running surface. The interior ends of the track will be made more functional for field events and a steeple chase pit area will be installed on the south end of the track. The school district will complete additional work to upgrade the facilities including removing the west stands and renovating the public restrooms in the east stands. The memorandum enables JBU to use the track for 12 years or until the track needs resurfacing, whichever is longer. At that time the partnership can be renewed for an additional 12 years with each school covering half the cost of the next track resurfacing. “We are deeply grateful to the Siloam Springs School District for allowing us to enter into this partnership with them,” JBU President Chip Pollard said. “This new track will be a great asset to SSSD, JBU and the community of Siloam Springs, and it is another example of how public and private institutions can work together for the common good.” The 28 members of the men’s and women’s cross-country teams will be immediately eligible to compete in both sports. Schochler hopes to have 60 student-athletes total in the cross country and track and field programs by fall 2021.

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Future Secured By Grace

PROGRESS UPDATE

$125 MILLION GOAL FOR 2019 $0M*

$132.2M

PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR BECOMES A FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENT

REMAINING

GIVEN/PLEDGED

PEER-ANDRUS STUDIO & PROJECT BARN $0.4M

$2.85M

REMAINING

GIVEN/PLEDGED

Art and engineering students are enjoying new, much-needed project space on the northwest side of campus.

ESTATE GIFTS FOR THE FUTURE $6.1M

$18.9M

REMAINING

GIVEN/PLEDGED

Estate gifts help grow and sustain the university.

ENDOWMENT FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE $7.1M $2.9M

GIVEN/PLEDGED

REMAINING

Over 40 students and alumni spent part of their summer in Northern Jordan excavating ancient ruins at the Abila of Decapolis.

JBU SCHOLARSHIP FUND $4.8M

$0.2M

GIVEN/PLEDGED

Gifts to the JBUSF provide annual need-based scholarships. More than 550 students benefit from the JBUSF annually.

REMAINING

COMPLETED PROJECTS MAYFIELD RESIDENCE HALL $6M GIVEN/PLEDGED

HEALTH EDUCATION BUILDING $12M GIVEN/PLEDGED

WALTON LIFETIME HEALTH COMPLEX $5M GIVEN/PLEDGED

J. ALVIN BROWN HALL $5.5M GIVEN/PLEDGED

SIMMONS GREAT HALL $6.5M GIVEN/PLEDGED

NORTHSLOPE APARTMENTS $3M GIVEN/PLEDGED

PROGRAM & OPERATING SUPPORT $23M GIVEN/PLEDGED

FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS $21.7M GIVEN/PLEDGED

ENDOWMENT FOR SCHOLARSHIPS $10M GIVEN/PLEDGED

*The overall campaign goal was not increased with the addition of the Mayfield renovation and the Peer-Andrus Studio & Project Barn, but donations given or pledged to those projects are reflected in the total amount of gifts.

Senior Nehemiah Hein came to JBU all the way from Colorado in search of a school with an exceptional engineering program at an affordable cost. “I was looking for an engineering program, and JBU had the most financial aid of the institutions I was looking at,” Hein said. “Plus, when I visited campus, I really enjoyed it and felt at home.” Hein adjusted to life at JBU quickly and loved the relationships he was building, but, because of poor grades his first year at JBU, he lost his academic scholarship for his sophomore year. Without a scholarship, Hein couldn’t afford to attend JBU and began to worry if he would be able to finish his education at all. Working with the financial aid office, Hein was able to obtain other scholarships and aid under the condition that he improve his grades the following semester. Hein switched his major to psychology, a field in which he had a growing interest, and continued his education at JBU, improving his academic performance. Set to graduate May 2019, Hein will be the first college graduate in his family. “I tell this story because to me it’s a reflection of JBU’s commitment to providing students the most they can,” Hein said. “I can’t describe how grateful I am for the financial aid that has kept me in school these last three years and now into my final year.” Hein loves studying psychology, and because of a JBU summer trip to Ecuador, he plans to work for the Peace Corps in Peru. He hopes taking Spanish classes will improve his language skills to better communicate with the people he hopes to serve. “Eventually, I’d like to come back and either get a Ph.D. in research psychology or get a master’s degree in higher education to work at the university in some capacity,” Hein said. “I am so grateful, not just for the aid that got me here to start but for the grace and additional aid given to keep me here so that I can finish.” For information on how to impact JBU students through scholarships, email Chris Greathouse at cgreathouse@jbu.edu or visit jbu.edu/giving/scholarship/.

C A M PA I G N

Faithful Giving Generosity Over the Years Supports Student’s Dreams

We are grateful to God for his abundant faithfulness and for those who faithfully contribute to student scholarships through the JBUSF.

lmost one hundred years ago, John E. Brown Sr. launched John Brown University with the mission that students who could not afford to attend college could pursue their dreams of earning a college degree. Today still, many of our students cannot afford higher education. The original mission of making JBU accessable to students with financial need continues by providing scholarships through the JBU Scholarship Fund (JBUSF). This year, over 700 students benefit from the generosity of alumni and friends who give to the JBUSF, which provides need-based scholarships and work-study employment so that students are able to reach their educational and professional goals at this institution committed to Christ Over All. It is through the generosity of others that Taylor Hansen, a junior graphic design major, has the opportunity to not only pursue her college dreams but also to grow in character and faith. When Hansen began exploring colleges, she had been struggling with her faith. When she first stepped on JBU’s campus, she knew this was the place for her because the professors were committed to encouraging and helping her grow as a designer and as an individual. After being at JBU for two years, Hansen affirms that she has received far more than an excellent education. She has grown in her relationship with the Lord and made lifelong friendships. But none of this would have been possible without scholarships. “Honestly, scholarships are what allowed me to attend JBU,” Hansen said. “And JBU has changed who I am as an individual and has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams.” After graduation, Hansen hopes to take all that she has learned and put it toward helping non profits create and effectively manage their brands. She also hopes to work with multicultural communities, exhibiting the love of God to those with whom she works. In January, as we launch our Centennial celebration, we will also debut the new JBUSF Faithful Giving Wall. This wall thanks those who have given gifts of any size to the JBUSF for 20 or more years or provided gifts totaling $10,000 or more. These contributors have helped enable students to attend JBU through their faithful support of students. Next time you visit campus, be sure to stop by the lobby of Simmons Great Hall to see this new display. We are grateful to God for his abundant faithfulness and for those who faithfully contribute to student scholarships through the JBUSF.

Jim Krall is the vice president for university advancement.

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FEATURE

CELEBRATING MORE THAN A BIRTHDAY BY DR. APRIL MORETON, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT When the great leader Joshua instructed the Israelites to pause and honor a great milestone in their journey, he had them place stones marking where they had crossed the mighty Jordan River on dry land. They were to remember the great work God had done and was about to do in the lives of his people. In just a few short weeks, JBU will do likewise – setting aside the upcoming year to pause and honor a significant milestone: the great work God has done through JBU over the last 100 years, and the anticipation of what he will do in the century to come. When the JBU community returns from the holiday season, 2000 West University St. will look and feel different. It will be the beginning of a yearlong celebration that recognizes God’s great blessings to JBU – the thousands of individuals who have experienced life change through JBU; the students who have become alumni and now serve across the globe; the faculty who have poured wisdom into those students; the staff and administration who serve because JBU’s mission to prepare people to honor God and serve others resonates with their souls. How does one adequately celebrate such a milestone birthday? All year long! Starting in January, faculty, staff and students will launch the celebration with a campus adorned with the Centennial logo, the release of the book “Christ Over All: A History of John Brown University,” a student-led t-shirt design competition reveal, cake, worship and more cake. Throughout the spring, chapel will highlight alumni whose time at JBU

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directly impacted their life callings, focusing on the Head, Heart, Hand motto. A couple notables include Joe Walenciak, dean of the Soderquist College of Business, who will share the story of the Walton Scholars Program and how it changed his life. Also, Billy Stevenson, Director of International Admissions and Student Services, will walk through the Irish Studies program, intertwining its history with his personal testimony in another spring chapel. The JBU Alumni Relations Office will take the celebration on the road for special alumni events in Texas, California, Colorado and Missouri. Even commencement in May will look different. The class of 1969, who will be celebrating their 50th anniversary, will lead the processional for this historic year. This graduation will also reveal a revised alma mater – the well-known melody with updated lyrics to reflect JBU’s 100 years of influence. But the big celebration – one you will not want to miss – will be Homecoming 2019 when JBU officially turns 100 on Sept. 29. This four-day celebration begins on Thursday, Sept. 26, as the university officially completes its historic $125 million Campaign for the Next Century. This campaign has raised JBU’s endowment to an all-time high of $120 million, renovated or built new buildings across campus, increased scholarships so that students are better able to afford JBU and grown resources to support faculty in their pursuit of excellence in teaching and research. What better way to celebrate God’s financial blessings than during the university’s centennial? The generosity of many has made JBU a financially solid institution. For this, we are grateful.

FEATURE

Following the campaign celebration, Homecoming officially begins on Friday with campuswide activities including an alumni chapel and opening of the time capsule. Later that evening, a yet-tobe revealed guest artist will perform a concert in Bill George Arena for alumni and the community. Student Events & Activities will host a student party on the quad. On Saturday, alumni can attend expanded class reunions, athletic events, and a special Centennial Showcase that evening. There will be something for everyone! On Sunday morning – JBU’s actual birthday – President Pollard will host a communitywide worship service celebrating God’s faithfulness through the years and then turn our focus to JBU’s future. Afterward, JBU’s famous chicken dinner will be served on the quad. What better way to celebrate God’s faithfulness to JBU than through worship, fellowship and great food? Activities will continue throughout the fall of 2019 and culminate at JBU’s Candlelight Service in December. This beautiful celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior is a fitting end to JBU’s milestone birthday as it focuses our hearts and minds on the giver of all good things, Jesus. Truly, it is for his glory and purposes that the university was founded. And through him, it continues to pursue Christ Over All. We have much for which to be grateful. What an honor to be a part of JBU for such a time as this. 100 years. It’s not every day that one can celebrate such a milestone birthday. Make plans now to join us for this once-in-a-lifetime Centennial Homecoming. Not only will you reminisce, you’ll be a part of history as JBU enters its next century.

SAVE THE DATE: SEPT. 26-29 JOHN E. BROWN SR., JBU FOUNDER

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HISTORY B O O K E XC E R PT

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“CHRIST OVER ALL: A HISTORY OF JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY” PROVIDES AN IN-DEPTH LOOK INTO THE FOUNDING AND LEGACY OF JBU THROUGH THE LENS OF ITS PRESIDENTS BEGINNING WITH THE FOUNDER, JOHN E. BROWN SR. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT JBU.EDU/HISTORYBOOK.

foreword: a university founded with christ over all BY J O H N E . B R O W N I I I

the history of john brown university is unusual, if not unique, in a number of ways. The original campus was first a vocational college with an associate degree program that required students to work half a day while attending classes and studying half a day. The founder’s hope was to offer a tuitionfree education, which included training for the “Head, Heart, and Hand.” In 1934, the program expanded into a four-year bachelor degree program with an emphasis on professional degrees in building construction, engineering, agriculture, radio and television broadcasting, the sciences, teacher education, and other fields, along with a core of liberal arts and Bible classes. After regional accreditation in 1962, both the enrollment and degree program offerings were expanded. Vocational training units were aligned with the student’s career interests as well as with work-study financial aid positions. In the 1970s, the university passed the 750 student mark in enrollment and added degrees in accounting, journalism, and the visual arts. The university exceeded an enrollment of 1,000 students for the first time in 1991. New undergraduate and graduate degree programs were added through off-campus classes for working adults. Between 1995 and 2015, nine major new buildings or additions were completed, and virtually every other building on campus was renovated. By 2015, the endowment program topped $100 million

in assets, as the university developed a long list of new endowed scholarships. Thankfully, many faithful alumni and friends continue to give generously each year in support of JBU’s historic mission as an evangelical Christian university. By the fall of 2019, in conjunction with the university’s 100th anniversary, the university will complete a $125 million “Campaign for the Next Century,” further increasing the endowment, providing for the renovation of three more buildings and funding a new health education facility that supports JBU’s newest degree program—nursing. Throughout this time, John Brown University has been blessed with an unusual continuity in leadership and educational mission. From 1919 to the present day (not including one year when a new president was replaced for a short time by an interim president), there have been only five presidents of the university—a succession of leaders who felt themselves called of God to service at JBU. Each one in turn was committed to the mission of providing students with a holistic Christian education equipping the “Head, Heart, and Hand.” Each president and his spouse has cared lovingly for the community of faculty, staff, and students, bound together under the founding motto—“Christ Over All.” It is an interesting, amazing, and, at times, miraculous story of how God’s hand has been upon His people who, as in the days of Nehemiah, “put their hands to the good work” (Neh 2:18 NAS) of building an exceptional learning community and Christian university in Northwest Arkansas.

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chapter 1: the early years of john elward brown sr. BY PAU L T. S E M O N ES ' 9 9

after the american civil war ended in 1865, a war-weary 25-year-old soldier named John Franklin Brown made his way home to Iowa. His father, Benjamin Franklin Brown, was a Quaker physician from Indiana who had migrated the family to Iowa some years before the war. Even though Quaker tradition is generally opposed to war, it was a few months after the outbreak of open conflict in 1861 that John Franklin enlisted in a Pennsylvania

he sat on his porch. The family’s meager income—as well as the physical difficulties the war had imposed on the father—meant that young John Elward had to quit school at age 11 and go to work on a neighbor’s farm. In that humble environment, John Elward Brown learned selfdiscipline and hard work, virtues upon which he would eventually build a university. Young John Elward’s life was not “all work, no play,” however.

Cavalry regiment of the Union Army that was drawing volunteers

There was plenty of time given for fun and athleticism, so much

from across Iowa. He mustered out four years later as the first

so that his friends gave him the nickname “Sport.” He sang in the

sergeant of his company. Despite the toll that the years of war had

church choir, joined a boys’ drum corps, played the harmonica while

taken on his body, he took up farming in Iowa. Within a year of the

the other children danced and by age 17 had earned a reputation as a

war’s end, John Franklin married Julia Ann Brammer, who was also

good square dance caller.

from an Iowa Quaker family, and they welcomed the first of nine children in 1867. On April 2, 1879, Elward Brown was born to the family in

Young John’s activities did not always please his father’s Quaker sensibilities. He became something of a wayward youth by the standards of the day. “The boy will never amount to anything,” John

Oskaloosa, Iowa. He was the fifth child born to the family, and four

Franklin once remarked to his wife. “We might as well let him go and

more siblings would be born after him, though three of the children

forget about him.”

died at a young age. Not long after Elward’s birth, John Franklin Brown took his growing family to Center Point, Iowa, which became the home town of Elward’s youth. All of the Brown boys were given first and middle names

the open Iowa farm fields, the voice of John Franklin singing as

As John grew, he found other types of work in those last years of the 19th century, including working in a livery stable. Since Center Point was, as its name suggests, something of a hub for the area, traveling salesmen often arrived there on the train in need of a horse

except Elward, who decided that he wanted two names too. Early

to carry them to the surrounding towns. John was fond of horses,

in his childhood, spurred by the fact that Elward was so often

and occasionally traded them for fun. He was even known to indulge

mispronounced, the boy adopted his father’s name John as his own

in horse races at times. On at least one occasion, he earned a little

first name. The Brown parents ran a strict home for the children

money by helping a carnival crew operate one of the era’s popular

in Quaker tradition. Farming in the fertile lands of Iowa ought to

merry-go-rounds, which, in the 1890s, were often turned by a horse-

have provided a comfortable living for such a large family, but the

drawn apparatus. Throughout many of his early life experiences, he

father was not physically able to do the heavy work that a productive

was becoming a keen observer of men, and, if he could not learn of

farm required. Still, the home was kind and loving, if impoverished.

literature and mathematics in a classroom, he was learning of men’s

Neighbors living a great distance away would often hear, across

character in the world around him.

BROWN BULLETIN

H IBOSO KTEXCER OR Y PT

Perhaps the most significant and influential employment John

John knew some of the Salvation Army members in town,

found in his Iowa years was in a printing shop in Center Point, where

including a Swedish officer of the organization named Ensign J. W.

he learned the basics of the trade as a “printer’s devil.” For much

Olson, who often sang and played music on the street corners of

of the rest of his life, he would remain interested in the printing

Rogers. On that night, some of John’s friends came outside to make

industry and would spend many years writing, editing and publishing

fun of the uniformed Swede singing and drumming in the rain.

Christian periodicals on a monthly or even weekly basis from a

But John lingered and did not laugh. He threw down his cigarette

printing press he owned.

and followed Ensign Olson to the meeting. In retelling the story of

In his late teens, John set out to make a life for himself beyond the eastern Iowa farmlands. His older brother Ben, already married with children, planned to buy a fruit farm in the town of Rogers, Arkansas, an area known around the turn of the century for its productive

this night many years later, Brown said his thoughts were, “If this man is willing to sing and beat his drum on a night like this, he has something I want!” After attending the services for several nights, John went forward

apple orchards. The brothers had an aunt and uncle already living in

to kneel at the altar on May 15, 1897, where he dedicated his life to

Northwest Arkansas, and this couple agreed to put their nephews up

serving Christ. He was 18 years old.

while they got their new lives started. Thus, in the fall of 1896, at the age of 17, John left Iowa with his older brother Ben and headed south in a covered wagon. During the next year, John and his brother found various jobs in

Ensign Olson’s habit was to call upon new converts, a few nights after their decision, to stand and give their testimony. When John’s turn came a few meetings later, he simply froze. “I stood up speechless,” he recalled years later. “I just couldn’t talk.” On his way

the area as Ben worked to establish himself before sending for his

home after that dumbstruck evening, John stopped under a tree

wife and children. The brothers cut railroad ties and hauled them

and prayed fervently that he could give a testimony in the Sunday

in a horse-drawn wagon. They worked ten-hour days in a limestone

morning service.

quarry, pushing the blasted and hammered rock fragments in wheelbarrows to a kiln. The young men’s typical earnings for such dusty manual labor in turn-of-the-century rural America were sixty cents a day—with half paid in coin and half paid in credit at the company store. In later years, newspapermen and others fascinated by John Brown’s successes would credit him as the “boy from the lime kilns.” On one wet, chilly night in downtown Rogers in 1897, John’s life was changed forever. After eating dinner in a downtown café with some friends, John stepped outside into the cool night air to smoke a cigarette. In the distance he “heard the beat of a drum and a voice raised in song.” It was the call to meeting for the night’s Salvation Army service.

When Sunday morning came and John was called upon to lead the prayer, he said, “I prayed like a house afire and could not find a place to stop. The next night I did not wait to be called upon. I was the first to testify. I began talking and have been doing it ever since.” John Elward soon wrote a letter to his father, John Franklin, telling him of his conversion. Though the father had once written off the son as a wayward boy who would never amount to anything, now he was overjoyed. With letter in hand, the father eagerly drove his horse team back home from town to tell his wife the good news. “Get ready,” he told her, “we are going to Arkansas.” Perhaps that night, the neighbors across the Iowa fields heard John Franklin Brown singing, one last time, just a bit more sweetly.

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1935

1925 1921

J. ALVIN BROWN HALL OPENS Male students move in from the “Old White” building.

FIRST ALUMNI BANQUET HELD Nine graduates emerge from John E. Brown College and two from John Brown University at Sulphur Springs.

1919

1929

JBU’S FOUNDING On Sept. 29, John E. Brown Sr. dedicates Southwestern Collegiate Institute or what is today John Brown University.

FIRST SUMMER SESSION OFFERED

1931

HELEN THE FIRST MEMORIAL BUILDING BUILT Named for the Browns’ second daughter who passed away, HFMB is built to replace “Old White,” and many of the materials come from the deconstructed “Old White.” It became known as, simply, "MO Dorm."

Then and Now

1920s Faculty: 12 Students: 70 Worth of a Dollar: $13 JBU Cost: Free Dress: Uniforms Suits for men,

FIRST JBU GRADUATING CLASS Diplomas are awarded to 37 graduates: 20 Bachelor of Arts degrees, 10 Bachelor of Science degrees and seven Theology of Bible degrees.

1933

UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP ESTABLISHES MANDATORY SUNDAY SERVICES FOR STUDENTS AND STAFF

1923

GENEVA COSSEL IS THE FIRST GRADUATE OF JOHN E. BROWN COLLEGE

1927

skirts/sailor shirts for women. (All numbers are approximate)

CALIFORNIA DORM DEDICATION California Dorm is dedicated and contains mostly furniture produced in the school’s factory.

1924

JOHN E. BROWN SR. ESTABLISHES JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY IN SULPHUR SPRINGS, ARKANSAS

1928

JOHN BROWN COLLEGE MERGES WITH JOHN E. BROWN COLLEGE IN ONE CAMPUS AT SILOAM SPRINGS

1934

JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY OFFICIALLY ESTABLISHED John Brown University is established with three colleges: John E. Brown College, Siloam School of the Bible and John Brown Vocational College.

1926

JBU AT SULPHUR SPRINGS RENAMED JOHN BROWN COLLEGE John Brown College educates female students and the John E. Brown College houses only males.

1922

GROUND BROKEN ON CALIFORNIA DORMITORY FOR WOMEN

1920

NAME CHANGES The university is renamed John E. Brown College to increase recognition of the school in evangelical circles.

BROWN BULLETIN

One of the early JBU bands, the "Log Cabin Band," built their own log cabin to which to practice. 1930

1932

THE COLLEGE BANK SERVES COMMUNITY The College Bank, which is unaffected by federal banking controls, is the only bank that serves the community of Siloam Springs on two occasions during the Great Depression.

ALUMNI BUILDING DEDICATION The Alumni Building, later renamed the Hyde Building, is dedicated, housing the dress factory, laundry, bakery, cannery, extension department and heating and electrical plant.

Then and Now

1930-1940s Faculty: 36 Students: 250 Worth of a Dollar: $16.50 JBU Cost: $450 per year

FEATURE

1945

CATHEDRAL GROUNDBREAKING The Cathedral is the first of a planned threebuilding “Memorial Group” in memory of fallen soldiers from the John Brown Schools.

1949

REDUCED VOCATIONAL TRAINING Vocational training is reduced from 15 to 10 hours weekly.

The Power Plant is dubbed "Old Bessie."

(All numbers are approximate) 1937

1951

SULPHUR SPRINGS LOCATION AND BMAO CLOSES The Brown Military Academy of the Ozarks boys are encouraged to attend Brown Military Academy in San Diego and the Sulphur Springs girls are encouraged to enter the Brown School for Girls in Glendora, California.

1942-43

BROWN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AND BROWN MILITARY ACADEMY OPEN IN CALIFORNIA Two school acquisitions open in California under the John Brown name: the Brown School for Girls near Glendora and the Brown Military Academy for boys in San Diego.

WWII TRAINING TAUGHT JBU provides 175 military cadets with basic pilot training. Male enrollment drops to merely 11 young men by the war’s end as students leave to serve their country. More than 40 students are lost in the war.

1939

BROWN’S HOME BECOMES UNIVERSITY GUEST CENTER

1941

MASTER BUILDERS CAMPAIGN LAUNCHES John Brown launches a new campaign, asking for $1 from each person who becomes a member. Mail pours in from 47 states, Canada, Central and South America, New Zealand and the Hawaiian Islands.

1947

100 STEPS CONSTRUCTED The steps lead down to the new swimming pool.

1950

WOMEN’S ATHLETICS TEAMS FORMED

1940

FIRE DESTROYS MAIN BUILDING IN SULPHUR SPRINGS The Brown Military Academy of the Ozarks returns to Siloam Springs and remains there through the duration of WWII.

1944 1936

RADIO TOWER BUILT A new transmitter building and radio tower, “The Rod of God,” are built for KUOA (a recently purchased radio station) with the purpose of transmitting the gospel to the Midwest.

RECORD HONOR GRADE Brown Military Academy breaks the honor record of the year with a 90.5 percent versus the previous average honor grade of 80 points.

1946

JOHN E. BROWN SR. FEATURED IN NEW YORK TIMES John E. Brown Sr. is featured alongside clergy and school leaders in the New York Times article, “Who’s Who in America.”

1938

AERONAUTICAL AND CIVILIAN PILOT TRAINING PROGRAM DEVELOPED With the imminence of World War II, an aeronautical training program is developed and an airfield hangar, wind tunnel, shop and laboratory are built to house two planes for the Civilian Pilot Training Program.

1952 1948

JOHN E. BROWN JR. BECOMES JBU PRESIDENT At the age of 26, John E. Brown Jr. becomes president of JBU. He is the youngest college president in the country at the time.

CAMPUS LIBRARY CONSTRUCTED An anonymous gift allows the second building in the Memorial Group to be constructed. FA LL 2018

Then and Now

1960s 1970s

1955 BIBLICAL STUDIES

COURSE REQUIRED All students required to take a twohour course in biblical studies each semester of study.

Students: 750 Worth of a Dollar: $7 JBU Cost: $1,800 per year (All numbers are approximate)

1961 J. ALVIN DEDICATION An expanded and drastically renovated J. Alvin Hall is dedicated during commencement exercises.

1967 SWIM TEAM

1959 STATEMENT OF FAITH ADOPTED

1953 KUOA MOVED TO CATHEDRAL

1963 SOUTH HALL OPENS South Hall, later renamed Mayfield, opens and the Cathedral pipe organ is installed.

1957 FOUNDER DIES; CATHEDRAL

DEDICATED John E. Brown Sr. dies in Leucadia, California, just two months before the completion of the Cathedral of the Ozarks.

The first JBU mascot is created by a home economics major.

1956 LIBRARY

BADMINTON ADDED AS INTRAMURAL SPORTS

Then and Now

1950s Students: 300 Worth of a Dollar: $10 JBU Cost: $990 per year Dress: Suits, ties, skirts except during sports and work.

From the handbook: "The standard of dress at all times is a matter of neatness and good taste. On Sunday, of course, everyone is expected to look his best." (All numbers are approximate)

BROWN BULLETIN

1965 THE PHYSICAL

EDUCATION BUILDING IS DEDICATED The building is later named Murray Sells Gymnasium.

1964 LIBRARY PURCHASES

DEDICATION

1954 PING PONG AND

BREAKS WORLD RECORD The JBU swim team breaks a world record by swimming 100 miles in 39 hours, 45 minutes and 26 seconds. Nine men swam in 1,000-yard shifts.

1958 SCIENCE BUILDING DEDICATION The

FIRST “PHOTOCOPYING APPARATUS”

Science Building, today Windgate Visual Arts West, is dedicated, completing the Cathedral Group.

1960 NEW SPORTS ADDED Women’s Basketball, Men’s and Women’s Tennis, Swimming and Volleyball were added as a part of the JBU Athletics program.

1962 ACCREDITATION JBU

receives full regional accreditation from the North Central Association.

1968 THE BROWN MILITARY ACADEMY CLOSES

1966 JBU’S BASEBALL TEAM BEGINS JBU’s baseball team develops into an NAIA powerhouse under the leadership of Wally Moon, an ex-Los Angeles Dodger.

Joan Baily sets new record for TWIRP* week; going out on a total of 19 dates (with a different guy each time) in a total of only six days. *The Woman is Required to Pay

FEATURE 1983 FREE ENTERPRISE

WEEK COMMENCES Business students sponsor their first Free Enterprise Week with Sam Walton, founder and chairman of Walmart stores, as a featured guest speaker.

First JBU summer mission project.

1985 WALTON 1977 JOYSONG FORMED

JoySong, a promotional and ministry musical group, forms to succeed Sound Generation.

1981 MEN’S RUGBY CLUB FORMED

1975 SOUND GENERATION

DISBANDED The Sound Generation, a musical group started in 1967 that toured across the U.S., is disbanded.

1971 CHARM COURSE STARTED Phase one of a five-week “Charm Course” for women is completed.

1979 JOHN E. BROWN

III BECOMES THIRD JBU PRESIDENT

1973 MABEE STUDENT 1969 MEMORIAL TREE

PLANTED FOR VIETNAM CASUALTIES

CENTER AND CHAPMAN ADMINISTRATION BUILDING DEDICATION Guests include Paul Harvey.

1972 TEACHER

BUILDINGS DEMOLITION The Helen Brown Memorial Dormitory and Arkansas Building stood for more than four decades at the heart of campus. The demolition made way for the quad, Chapman Administration Building and Kresge Dining Hall.

Students participate in Hillbilly Day, which celebrates Arkansas history (and stereotypes) with flannel, beans and banjos.

1980 MABEE LEARNING

EDUCATION PROGRAM ACCREDITED

1970 START OF HISTORICAL

RESOURCE CENTER DEDICATED

1976 SAGER CABIN

BECOMES HISTORIC Sager Cabin, in its original 1844 location, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The cafeteria moves from the California basement to the new Kresge Dining Hall. 1974 ADDITION OF ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAM

INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM ESTABLISHED The Walton Foundation establishes a triuniversity scholarship program for Central American students, designating JBU as one of the program’s participants.

1984 THE TP GAME

TRADITION DEBUTS The Toilet Paper Game tradition begins and becomes an annual event at the first home men’s basketball game.

1986 FRESHMAN

ACHIEVEMENT Admissions standards are raised and the average freshman ACT score rises from the 5th percentile to the 64th percentile.

1982 ENTRANCE MARKER/ 1978 GOVERNOR BILL CLINTON SPEAKS AT JBU’S PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION

FLAGPOLES DEDICATED The entrance marker and flagpoles are dedicated and a time capsule is enclosed that will be opened during JBU’s Centennial Celebration.

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Then and Now

2000s Students: 1,200 Worth of a Dollar: $1 JBU Cost: $20,910

1989 CATHEDRAL RENOVATION

per year (All numbers are approximate)

LAUNCHED The $1 million Cathedral renovation is launched with a gift from an anonymous donor.

1995 ADVANCE DEGREE 1991 CONAN THE EAGLE

1987 SCHOLARSHIP

DEBUTS The new JBU mascot makes its debut at the annual Toilet Paper Game. He was renamed Regal in 2001.

FOR MISSIONARY KIDS ANNOUNCED A new scholarship fund of $1 million is announced for the children of missionaries. Over 40 students receive awards in the program’s first year.

PROGRAM GRADUATES FIRST CLASS The Advance Degree Completion Program, designed for adults with two or more years of prior college education, offers classes in Springdale, Fayetteville and Siloam Springs.

1993 GEORGE F. FORD

BECOMES PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY However, he resigns less than a year later. William "Bill" George is appointed interim president.

1988 HONORS PROGRAM

1999 SODERQUIST LEADERSHIP FOUNDED Soderquist Leadership, now Milestone Leadership, trains business leaders and provides executive training.

BUSINESS AND DIGITAL MEDIA ADDED Two new majors– international business and digital media – are introduced, both of which soon place among the top-10 most popular majors.

1994 A. LEVON “LEE” BALZER BECOMES PRESIDENT OF JBU

FAMILY STUDIES The Center for Marriage and Family Studies, now Center for Healthy Relationships, is established at JBU to target the improvement of family life at JBU, regionally, nationally and throughout the world.

1990 TOWNHOUSES BEGIN

The Gathering, a student-led chapel service, is established.

CONSTRUCTION JBU builds the first two townhouses for upperclassmen. Four more are added: two in 1992 and two in 1994.

Then and Now

1980-1990s Students: 1,000 Worth of a Dollar: $2.50 JBU Cost: $9,880 per year Dress: Business-like attire during class. "No grubbies" allowed from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

A Threefold Advocate controversy in 1993 spurs a looser dress code. (All numbers are approximate)

Missionary kids from Africa begin an annual tradition called the Goat Roast.

1998 CENTER FOR MARRIAGE AND

ESTABLISHED JBU makes an effort to recruit and retain academically gifted students.

BROWN BULLETIN

AND DEBATE TEAM RESTARTED By year’s end, JBU's debaters receive national recognition on several levels.

1997 INTERNATIONAL

World Awareness Week is established. It includes special chapels, guest speakers and a food festival.

2001 SPEECH

1992 RECORD RETENTION

RATE AT 94 PERCENT JBU sets a record with 94 percent of freshman returning to JBU.

2000 KLRC BROADCASTS

INTERNATIONALLY KLRC, JBU’s contemporary Christian FM station, begins broadcasting internationally via Internet radio.

1996 JBU NAMED IN TOP

10 REGIONAL LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES IN THE SOUTH For the third consecutive year, U.S. News and World Report recognizes JBU as one of the top-10 regional liberal arts colleges in the south.

2002 WALKER STUDENT CENTER

OPENS A dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony is held celebrating the new Walker Student Center, which provides space for student development, counseling services, student activities, the bookstore, post office and the new California Café.

FEATURE

The student-built and student-run Ground Floor Coffee shop opens; all the proceeds go to JBU Enactus projects.

2007 JBU CELEBRATES “ROCK THE

CATHEDRAL” CAMPAIGN Almost 50 years to the day after the original dedication service for the Cathedral Group, a special chapel service celebrates the completion of the “Rock the Cathedral” fundraising campaign with 20 alumni who worked on the original construction of the Cathedral as students.

2015 LARGEST INCOMING

2005 MEN’S BASKETBALL

TEAM WINS NAIA CHAMPIONSHIP JBU’s men’s basketball team wins its first national championship, making JBU the first Arkansas institution to win the NAIA Division I men’s basketball national title.

2011 BALZER TECH

CENTER OPENS Named after former president Lee Balzer and his wife Alice, the Balzer Technology Center houses the engineering and construction management programs.

2003 THE CATHEDRAL

CHOIR’S FIRST NORTHERN IRELAND TOUR The Cathedral Choir replaces its traditional national spring break travel schedule with an international tour to Northern Ireland. The program is such a success that the Irish tour takes place every three years.

CLASS The incoming class in fall 2015, at 456 students, becomes the largest class to date.

2017 PUBLIC FUTSAL COURT

OPENS JBU opens first public Futsal courts in Northwest Arkansas.

2013 NORTHSLOPE

2019 JBU

APARTMENTS AND SIMMONS GREAT HALL OPEN Apartments replace the Broadhurst duplexes. The Great Hall provides much-needed event space.

2009 BERRY

PERFORMING ARTS CENTER OPENS

CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

2010 BILL GEORGE ARENA OPENS Cross country returns.

2006 PRESIDENT’S HOME

CONSTRUCTED The Pollards move into the new president’s house built to help host guests of the university and various events, including a picnic for first-year students during orientation, the faculty-staff Christmas party and an annual parents' reception during Family Weekend.

2004 CHARLES W.

POLLARD BECOMES 6TH JBU PRESIDENT

2012 JBU BECOMES ZERO LANDFILL CAMPUS

BUILDING OPENS The $6 million state-of-the-art building houses the nursing program established in 2014.

2014 COLLEGE OF

EDUCATION AND HUMAN SERVICES FORMED JBU combines education, psychology, kinesiology, family and human services, nursing and graduate counseling under new college.

2008 JBU HOSTS

FINAL WOMEN’S SWIM MEET Golf returns as a sport. The freshman play tradition begins.

2016 HEALTH EDUCATION

Then and Now

2010s - Now Faculty: 239 (full time and adjunct) Students: 2,474 Worth of a Dollar: $1 JBU Cost: $36,152 per year Dress: Fashionably casual, jeans, hats. From the handbook: "...students are expected to use discernment in their choice of attire, etiquette and behavior in their educational endeavors." (All numbers are approximate)

2018 ART, ENGINEERING

PROJECT BARN OPENS Named for two professors who founded the visual arts program, the Peer-Andrus Studio and Project Barn provides space for student projects. The Alumni Welcome Center is also opened as a hospitality hub and the new location of University Archives. FA LL 2018

THREE GENERATIONS OF ALUMNI

Leaving a Spiritual Legacy

BY TARAH THOMAS ’16 PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE SIEMENS FAMILY

BROWN BULLETIN

he Walt and Margaret Siemens family lineage has been intertwined with JBU for over half of the university’s nearly 100-year existence. For 52 consecutive years, from 1966 to the spring of 2018, a member of the Siemens family has been either a JBU student, faculty or staff member. In fall 1946, Walt Siemens ’49, a tall German Mennonite from Kansas who had just come back from serving as a medic in World War II, met Margaret Walton ’47, a soft-spoken, musically-gifted Methodist from South Dakota. Margaret was a senior applied music major who was top of her class and often sang in the JBU musical group Triple Trio. Walt, an athletic, humorous extrovert, used the GI Bill to major in Bible so he could become a preacher. “I did say to some of the girls as we were discussing [a group of veterans], ‘I kinda like that big ugly guy,’” Margaret said. “I had observed him singing lustily at the evangelistic meetings that Dr. John E. Brown Sr. always conducted at the beginning of the school year or semester.” The two married on Sept. 1, 1947, and started their family, having nine children that would all attend JBU: Don ’71, Walta Hattaway ’72, Rosanne Redditt ’75, Dan ’76, Lyn Spencer ’79, Doug ’80, David ’85, Jan Kimball ’86 and Dwight ’88. For the Siemens children, growing up had its challenges

and rewards. The house was always busy, loud, full of singing, laughter, and, at times, plenty of bickering. Excitement came when a new baby arrived. “I remember being kind of selfish as a kid though thinking if we didn’t have so many siblings, I’d get my own bicycle,” Rosanne said. "Otherwise we had to share. But there was nothing wrong with that.” Walt and Margaret were frugal, always looking for ways to fully utilize their resources, Doug recalled. “Most girls especially want to dress as other girls do,” Margaret said. “When our daughters asked for something special, I tried to never say, ‘We can’t afford it.’ Instead I asked them to help me see if we could sew something like it, and we usually could.” The Siemens family moved every two to three years to small towns in Kansas as Walt was a school principal and Margaret was a homemaker who also taught piano lessons. Living in small towns sometimes meant not having the best access to churches. But Walt and Margaret didn’t leave the spiritual development of their kids to the church. They sought to provide their kids with a good foundation, Dan said. Walt and Margaret lived out their faith daily. Their commitment and dedication to walking with the Lord permeated every

aspect of their lives, modeling their spiritual walk for their children. “One of my favorite memories of [my dad] was him getting up in the morning when it was dark, and I would see him in the living room reading his Bible by lamp light,” Walta said. “That was very meaningful to me.” Lyn also remembers her mom, who was surely tired with nine children, spending time in her prayer closet rather than napping. In summer 1968, the Siemens family moved to Siloam Springs, where Walt became a JBU professor of teacher education. At the time, Don and Walta were already a junior and sophomore at JBU. From 1972 to 1982, Walt was the head of students and student affairs and then the director of student relations. Affectionately known on campus as “Uncle Walt,” he fit best in this administrative role, as he loved and had a deep heart for people. Even though the position required enforcing the rules, Walt tried to understand students and the reasons behind their actions, often diffusing difficult conversations with bad humor. A humor Doug says he inherited. The impact Walt made on students was far and wide. Don recalled a basketball player who went to apologize to Walt. “I’m sorry, would you forgive me?,” the basketball player asked. Walt

ALUMNI

kids. Now, she teaches pre-K. Doug, a broadcasting major, worked in a variety of positions in radio, sales, public relations, marketing and customer service. David, an accounting major, is vice president of finance at Hudson & Associates. Jan, a business education major, taught for a while until she started homeschooling her children. She now cares for Margaret and does volunteer work. Dwight, an accounting and business administration major, is an accountant for Tyson Foods. As the century turned, the next generation of Siemens descendants began to graduate from JBU — eight of the 34 grandchildren: Erich ’00 and Brach Siemens ’01 (sons of Don), Rebecca Wood ’01 and Sarah McGregor ’04 (daughters of Walta Hattaway), Libby Redditt ’10 (daughter of Rosanne Redditt), Kyle Spencer ’08 (son of Lyn Spencer), Lee Siemens ’14 (son of Doug) and Acadia Kimball ’18 (daughter of Jan Kimball). Every grandchild has some fond childhood memory of visiting JBU, whether for Homecoming or during a visit with their grandma, aunts, uncles and cousins. In fact, Sarah and Rebecca got a taste of college life when they visited their Aunt Jan in Mayfield. “She had dragged a mattress from some other room, and we slept there for the night,” Sarah said. “It was a fun slumber party

with our aunt! So, when I became a student it was quite special to stay in the same dorm as my mother, aunt and sister (and I'm sure other aunts as well).” But the best legacy within the Siemens family is not the school listed on their diploma, it is the consistent spiritualminded perspective that has permeated the family. “When I see my aunts and uncles, it’s a heart thing,” Kyle, a worship arts alumnus, said. “Christianity isn’t generational, but it is a relationship with Christ and a deep faith that has been passed down.” Libby saw this first hand when she lived with Margaret for three semesters while an international business major at JBU. “She would get up early every morning, and I would hear her already in the kitchen,” Libby said. “She would have her Bible open and had a huge prayer list of people to pray for every day. She would be singing her hymns. She would have cans of food in each hand and be doing her exercises.” Though there are no Siemens’ family members at JBU now, the spiritual legacy of Walt & Margaret continues to play out at JBU through the impact of the Walt and Margaret Siemens Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2011 by Don and his wife Cindi, the scholarship assists deserving athletes and missionary kids who attend JBU.

THE WALT & MARGARET SIEMENS FAMILY

said, “Hey, I forgave you a long time ago, before you even asked.” This still impacted that student’s life years later. Walt’s work at JBU also enabled all nine children to receive a faculty scholarship. “Dad being at JBU was God’s way of providing college for all of us,” Walta said. “We will never be able to thank God enough for that.” Walt passed away from his second heart attack in 1985, having served his last three years as assistant to John E. Brown III. Jan was a senior and Dwight was a sophomore, the last of the nine children to graduate from JBU. Although all nine attended JBU, none felt they had to go. It was a choice that, looking back, proved to be an influential decision. Don, an engineering major, became a JBU professor of math and physical science until he retired in 2012. Walta, an elementary education major, taught elementary and middle school for 31 years, taking time off in between to rear her four daughters. Rosanne, a business education major, also taught until retirement with a span of years where she stayed at home with kids. Dan, an elementary education major, served as a school principal in Oklahoma and Arkansas for over 35 years. Lyn, a physical education major, taught PE for 17 years, after a break from teaching to raise her

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Homecoming 2018 This year’s Homecoming (Oct. 5-6) celebrated JBU’s visual arts program, one of the largest JBU programs with offerings in graphic design, art and illustration, digital cinema and photography. Events included the dedication of the Peer-Andrus Studio and Project Barn that honored Charles Peer and David Andrus for founding the visual arts program in 1990; a visual arts reunion with alumni and current students; and The Showcase highlighting the accomplishments of the visual arts program's diverse and talented alumni. Intermixed into Homecoming were also the annual alumni vs. student games for soccer, basketball, Ultimate Frisbee, rugby and tennis (new this year). The 5K Glow Run, which benefits the JBU Scholarship Fund,

and the Alumni Breakfast on Saturday morning returned for the second consecutive year. In addition, the Class of 2008 came together for their 10-year reunion at Bob Henry Park, and JBU opened the new Alumni Welcome Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Old roommates, resident directors, resident assistants and other women across the decades reconnected at the Mayfield Residence Hall Dedication and Reunion. Alumni even enjoyed s’mores at the new Mayfield fire pit after The Showcase. The music and theatre department produced an all-freshman cast in “Leaving Iowa,” which followed a middle-aged writer who returns to his childhood home, revisiting memories from youth. Homecoming 2019 will be a treat as we celebrate JBU’s Centennial. Save the date for Sept. 26-29.

Dedica

Alumni Ultimate Frisbee Match

Women’s Soccer

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The Showcase

Alumni Rugby Match

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The Showcase

ation of Mayfield Residence Hall

Alumni Tennis Match

The Showcase

5K Glow Run

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Dedication of Mayfield Residence Hall

Freshman Play “Leaving Iowa”

Men’s Soccer

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The Showcase

Alumni Basketball Game

ALUMNI FRONT ROW FROM LEFT: JANET LANCASTERGORING, RUTH RONAN, ALICE MCQUAY, THERA BARBER, MARTHA SHEETS, SALLY WEAVER, DONNA BOWLING MIDDLE ROW FROM LEFT: LINDA NELLIST, BETH BENWARE, JUDIE EMANUEL, MARY LOU FAST, CAROLE MAINES, BERNADINE TEAGUE, DAVID TEAGUE, ROBYN PETELSKI, MARILYN HOLLIDAY, JIM SHEETS, GIL WEAVER, BOB SHERIDAN BACK ROW FROM LEFT: ED KLOTZ, EDGAR POTTER, GARY HEALD, DONALD EMANUEL, RON MAINES, NICK PETELSKI, BILL BROWN, TARVER JO LAMNANG, DORIS Heritage Society KROUT MCKINZIE FRONT ROW FROM LEFT: LINDA NELLIST, BETH BENWARE, JUDIE EMANUEL, MARY LOU FAST, CAROLE MAINES BACK ROW FROM LEFT: ED KLOTZ, EDGAR POTTER, GARY HEALD, DONALD EMANUEL

Senior Attendants, King & Queen

Class of 1968 Heritage Society Inductees

The Showcase

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Alumni Awards Each year, JBU Alumni & Parent Relations honors one student and five alumni during Homecoming weekend. Do you know alumni that deserve recognition? The criteria and nomination forms are at jbu.edu/alumni/recognition. Katie Rowe ’19 — Outstanding Senior Award Katie Rowe is a senior psychology major from Kansas City and a member of the JBU Psychology Honor Society. She has presented multiple papers at academic conferences across the U.S. and received second place for her paper “Factors that Influence Missionary Attrition” at the JBU Academic Excellence Research Conference. In addition to her excellence in the classroom, Rowe has a growing passion and calling to serve victims of human trafficking. Last summer, Rowe worked with organizations in Latvia which specifically aim to free young women from sex trafficking. She’s the leader of the Great Abandon Dance Ministry in addition to serving as a resident assistant for the Northslope Apartments. 03 Charles Matter ’09 — Young Eagle Award Charles Matter graduated from JBU with a master’s degree in youth ministry in partnership with Kanakuk Kamps Institute. He became the founder and CEO of a fast-growing oil and gas company, Case Energy Partners, LLC. As a registered professional landman and certified mineral manager, Matter directly evaluates, acquisitions and manages oil and gas properties and reports to an advisory team with extensive experience. He is an active member of the Dallas Petroleum Club, Entrepreneurs’ Organization, American Association of Petroleum Landmen, Young Professionals in Energy—Dallas Chapter and National Association of Royalty Owners. Case Energy Partners has been named to the Inc. 500, as one of the 500 fastest growing private companies in the U.S. with a projected $25 million revenue by 2018. 04

Dan Mellema ’83 — Career Achievement Award Dan Mellema began working at Focus on the Family in 1994 as a junior accountant. During his 25 years with the organization, he has advanced through a variety of leadership roles to serve as the chief financial officer. Outside of his job, Mellema has dedicated his time serving as a junior varsity basketball coach for over 20 years, and he volunteers as a youth leader at his church. He serves as an elder at Austin Bluffs Evangelical Free Church. 05 Gareth Unruh ’00 — Christian Ministry Award Gareth Unruh started volunteering for Youth for Christ in its juvenile justice ministry after graduating from JBU with a degree in youth ministry. He then joined full time as the juvenile justice ministry director for Denver Area Youth for Christ, serving 13 agencies and

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partnering with seven counties in Colorado with a team of six staff members and 150 volunteers. In 2017, he oversaw the ministry leadership models of YFC, working with students in high schools and middle schools, parenting teens and working with 21 Juvenile Justice Ministry sites. As of 2018, he works for the national YFC juvenile justice ministry. 02 Robyn Daugherty ’85 & ’03 — Christian Service Award Robyn Daugherty has been JBU director of athletics since 2006 after two decades as head coach of the Golden Eagle volleyball team. As coach, Daugherty amassed over 400 victories, making her the all-time winningest coach in JBU athletics history, finishing with an overall record of 446-300. Her teams captured four conference championships, including two Sooner Athletic Conference regularseason crowns and two SAC tournament titles. Her excellence as both a coach and athletic director has earned her numerous awards, including being named Sooner Athletic Conference Volleyball Coach of the Year, NAIA Region IV Coach of the Year, NAIA Coach of Character Award, Sooner Athletic Conference Athletic Director of the Year and most recently NAIA Under Armour Athletic Director of the Year. 07

Ron ’67 & Carole ’68 Maines — Outstanding Alumnus Ron and Carole Maines’ careers have taken them around the world, from Romania to Sri Lanka and 82 other countries. Following graduation, Ron served with honor in the Vietnam War as a U.S. Marine Corps aviator. Ron then became the founding board member and chair of Samaritan House in Northwest Arkansas, led a $15 million campaign for Fellowship Bible Church NWA and served as a strategic leadership consultant to over 250 boards and CEOs for corporations and not-for-profits. Carole earned her master’s degree in 1990 and a doctorate in 2004. She served as a teacher, counselor and vice principal for Arrowhead Christian Academy and Redlands Christian School before serving as an instructor at the University of Redlands. She then became a JBU associate professor of graduate counseling education. Carole also served on many boards, including Mission Aviation Fellowship. 01

Alumni Updates Brandon Wise ’02 became the director of informatics at Suncoast Hospice/Empath Health in Clearwater, Florida, starting May 1. 06

Be featured in the Brown Bulletin! Submit your professional and family news to jbu.edu/alumni/magazine/news/.

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Pack your bags. Centennial Family Weekend is coming.

MILESTONES

In Memoriam Phyllis Wilkinson Anderson, age 89, died March 25. Anderson attended JBU, studying home economics. She was a member of the Gideon’s Auxiliary and a proud homemaker. 01 Marianne Rogers Bland ’70, age 86, died June 2. Bland attended JBU for a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and worked as an elementary school teacher for 22 years. Bland was a member of the Arkansas Retired Teachers Association and Rainbow Girls. She was passionate about education. 02 Debra Dale Boyd ’81, age 61, died Aug. 3. Boyd earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at JBU and taught at Allen Elementary School in Oklahoma for 27 years until her retirement. She faithfully attended her church for many years. 03 Mark Howard Brewer ’78, age 66, died Sept. 21. Brewer graduated from JBU with a bachelor’s degree in English and taught high school students before returning to his family in Missouri. Brewer became a miniature artist, painting nature scenes with a single strand of his hair. He worked for drug rehabilitation programs and spoke to youth about the dangers of drug abuse. 04 John Herbert Calhoun, age 75, died June 12. Calhoun attended JBU for radio production and worked in Christian education, radio and television. He retired as a reference librarian at the Sumter County Library in South Carolina. He enjoyed playing the organ and hiking in the mountains in the fall.

David Vanburen Finch, age 47, died Oct. 1. Finch played basketball in high school and was recruited to play at JBU, but he transferred to Northeastern State University. Finch proudly represented his Choctaw culture and heritage, participating in Native American activities. His biggest enjoyment was spending time with friends and family. J.O. Haney Jr., age 83, died Aug. 27. Haney started JBU at the age of 15 and met his wife in his second year. They married, with the consent of their parents, at the age of 17. Haney was a religious musician, automotive manager for Sears & Roebuck Southside and owner of Asphalt Maintenance Co. He grew his business for 25 years until he retired in 2005. 05 Bob Harper ’56, age 83, died April 30. Harper graduated from JBU with a degree in mechanical engineering and worked as an aviation engineer for Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma. Harper chaired the board at Harper Brush for over five decades. He never ceased working or learning, even enrolling in courses at age 70. Harper and his wife, Analee, enjoyed the rural life near Oklahoma City. Jane A. Hansen, age 57, died Aug. 17. Hansen attended JBU where she was actively involved in Youth for Christ and KYFC TV50. She worked at AT&T for 35 years until she retired. 06 Donald R. Herrmann ’86, age 54, died May 8. Herrmann played tennis while attending JBU for a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business. He later earned his master’s degree and doctorate in accounting. Herrmann worked at Oregon State

University for nine years but returned to Oklahoma State University for the remainder of his professional career. Herrmann led numerous Bible studies and outreach services to his community. 07 Rodger Scott Howard, age 75, died May 9. After his time at JBU, Howard served in the United States Air Force where he worked as a psychiatric medic to help veterans. He started his own trucking line, Rodger S. Howard Trucking, and was always extremely proud of his family. Clyde Leon Gehron ’50, age 91, died July 22. Gehron graduated from JBU with a degree in agriculture and then joined the U.S. Navy, where he served in the South Pacific aboard an aircraft carrier during World War II. After his service, Gehron started two nurseries, growing over 1 billion trees and planting over 1 million acres in Louisiana. 08 Dana Welty Kappen ’04, age 51, died May 25. Kappen earned her master’s degree in school counseling from JBU and worked as a teacher for many years in Northwest Arkansas. Kappen served as an active member of her church—greeting, cooking and ministering to others. 09 Desmond Dean Kerns, age 85, died June 28. Kerns graduated from Nazarene College and earned a divinity degree from Nazarene Theological Seminary. He returned to California to serve as a senior pastor. Kerns and Don Leetch co-founded Outreach Center Church and DaySpring Cards in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Kerns and his family generously supported JBU during their time in Siloam Springs. 10

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Joyce Wasson Kimberling, age 87, died July 23. Kimberling studied radio broadcasting at JBU and used her training to record audio books for the blind. She loved music, singing in the church choir as well as performing duets with her daughter. 11 Arlene Rauch Laidig, age 81, died July 5. Laidig earned her nursing degree from Presbyterian School of Nursing and worked at a hospital in New Jersey. She left her career to raise a family but served as CFO for her husband’s company BTECH, Inc. She had a passion for missions, entertaining and spending time outdoors. 12 Suzann Matz, age 61, died Aug. 5. Matz attended JBU for one year until she earned a floral designer certification and began working for the Broadmoor Hotel Greenhouse in Colorado Springs. 13 Richard “Dick” Mayhew, age 98, died Sept. 20. Mayhew attended JBU before serving as a navy flight instructor during World War II. He then became a pilot for Pan American Airlines for over 34 years, logging more than 29,000 hours in the air and flying to countries around the world. He proudly flew the Beatles from London to JFK in 1964. Mayhew remained an active member of his church and the Rotary Club in Connecticut. 14

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EvaLena Reder Mayo ’70, age 88, died April 24. Mayo began her education at the University of Arkansas and later finished her bachelor’s degree in mathematics education at JBU. She taught math at Bentonville High School before playing a critical role in starting Northwest Arkansas Community College. She was later on NWACC’s Board of Trustees and was a faithful member of her church. 15 James Irven McGraw ’52, age 90, died Aug. 21. McGraw served in the U.S. Army before graduating from JBU with a degree in agriculture. He was a science teacher but felt called to ministry. He attended seminary and served at many churches. McGraw and his family moved all over the U.S. but always served in the church. 16 Mary Darlene Mintle ’84, age 55, died April 28. After earning a degree in business at JBU, Mintle went on to teach at many schools in Nebraska. She then worked at Primerica Insurance and Securities Agency for the remainder of her career. Mintle never met a stranger in her life and loved telling stories to family and friends. Mark Derryl Mouttet, age 66, died May 23. Mouttet attended JBU but went on to Northeastern State University. He volunteered for the Oklahoma Special Olympics

during the 1970s and 1980s. Mouttet was a cattle farmer and traveled to many countries teaching others how to farm and work with animals. 17 Philip Paxton ’00, age 40, died July 8. Paxton graduated from JBU with a degree in business information systems. He worked for many large companies in a variety of roles and loved traveling, meeting new people and experiencing different cultures. Paxton was active in his church and led mission trips to Mexico and throughout the U.S. 18 Jerry Ratzlaff ’68, age 76, died Oct. 5. Ratzlaff earned a bachelor’s degree in English education from JBU. He worked for over 20 years as a band director for Russellville School District and was the choir director for his church. He had a strong faith and an easy-going attitude. Gaye McDonald Sample ’01, age 57, died April 28. Sample graduated from JBU with a degree in organizational management and was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Van Buren, Arkansas. 19 Roger Stadler ’61, age 83, died June 3. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and economics from JBU. He was a U.S. Army veteran.

MILESTONES

Dorothy Thompson Stumbo, age 93, died May 11. Stumbo attended high school at JBU, where her parents taught. She studied at Pasadena Junior College and worked in accounting and business. Valerie Turnipseed Shropshire ’01, age 44, died July 7. Shropshire earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational management at JBU and worked in administrative and marketing roles for 23 years. She taught and led Sunday school and the AWANA program for her church. 20 Thomas Barnette Smiley, Jr. ’51, age 91, died July 17. Smiley served in the Army during World War II before attending JBU for mechanical engineering. Smiley married his wife Verma, and they had their first child on JBU’s campus. For 21 years, Smiley served on the JBU Board of Trustees, as well as many other university boards. Mary Jean Strachan ’65, age 75, died Aug. 4. Strachan earned her bachelor’s degree in English education from JBU and taught in Kansas City before moving to Northwest Arkansas. She taught in Rogers, Arkansas, for 34 years. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and was the founding member of the Rogers Culture Club.

David Edmund Thompson ’61, age 83, died April 25. Thompson graduated from JBU with a degree in mechanical engineering and invented many products. His creation of the Thompson Roto Stripper was a best seller on the hardware market in the late 1970s. Thompson stayed active in the church and spent over 40 years as a member of Gideon’s International. 21 Shirley Smith Treat ’04, age 73, died July 4. Treat graduated from JBU with a degree in organizational management and worked in a variety of roles ranging from a tax accountant to a barrel race judge at rodeos. Treat served her local fire department from 2005 as a secretary, volunteer firefighter and EMT. 22 Gary Webb, age 73, died Aug. 30. Webb owned and operated Adcock Drilling in Pea Ridge after attending JBU for Biblical studies. He was an ordained minister and senior deacon at his church in Bentonville where he was a member for over 40 years. Webb loved to fish and fix things. 23 Geraldine Longford Witherspoon, age 90, died Sept. 27. Witherspoon attended JBU for a short time and was a founding member of Harlan Park Baptist Church,

serving in many capacities. She was an active member in her community and hosted Bible studies, mentored young women and served in UCA Faculty Club. 24 Joe Don “J.D.” Wright ’16, age 52, died Sept. 12. Wright earned his master’s degree in business administration from JBU and worked for Walmart in information technology. Wright loved watching football and riding his motorcycle. 25 Joe Zimmerman ’52, age 86, died July 6. Zimmerman graduated from JBU with a degree in music. He also earned a master’s degree in music and a doctorate in musicology. Zimmerman served at JBU for nearly 40 years teaching applied piano and as the music department head. He also served as the chair of the division of arts and literature. Zimmerman retired in 1996 and was well known for his amazing piano skills. Gordon Arthur Zoschke ’54, age 88, died July 10. Zoschke graduated from JBU with a degree in agriculture and used his education to build a dairy farm and start his lifelong career as a farmer. Zoschke served his church in a variety of roles. Zoschke loved classical music and sang baritone for many different choirs.

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FROM THE EDITOR

A Foundation Built to Last

"Christ Over All" Still Bedrock of JBU

L JBU has seen tremendous growth over the last 99 years. ... The growth was built on a solid foundation of "Christ Over All."

MARK AND JULIE GUMM AT THE LEANING TOWER OF PISA IN PISA, ITALY.

ast month my husband Mark and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary with a trip to Italy, a country populated with churches and palaces where almost every inch is steeped in history and covered in stunningly beautiful paintings, mosaics and sculptures. But one building, while still beautiful, is fundamentally flawed. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is known around the world for its unintended tilt. Experts say that the design of the tower’s columns and arches demonstrate the Italian architects’ great knowledge of weight and load characteristics. But all of that knowledge was overshadowed by a lack of understanding of the soil on which the tower was built. In 1173, the tower’s foundation of marble and lime was laid in a circular ditch but only at a depth of five feet. Unfortunately the soil beneath, a combination of clay, fine sand and shells, was incredibly soft. War and social unrest stalled the construction of the tower which occurred in three stages over 199 years. But the tilt of the tower was evident even before the completion of the second story. Builders altered the plans and tried to compensate for the sinking by building the third story slightly taller on one side. It didn't help. Two more times, as construction halted and began again, builders tried to adjust the construction to counterbalance the flaw. But nothing could properly remedy the real issue — the tower was built on shifting sand. Beginning in 1935, five different groups have tried various means to stabilize the tower and prevent continued shifting — adding a cement mixture to the foundation, stacking 600 tons of lead on the base as a counterweight, implementing underground steel anchors, removing soil from underneath and installing a drainage system. Engineers now think the tower is stable, but nothing will ever right the leaning tower because of its poorly constructed foundation and the sand below it. A century ago, John E. Brown Sr. traversed the country speaking to crowds of over 2,000 people. His enthusiastic call for young men and women to dedicate their lives to public service was answered, but Brown discovered that most had no means to get the education they needed to do so. Thus began the dreaming, and, finally, the fruition of those plans — a distinctly Christian college that would train young people with a threefold education. JBU has seen tremendous growth over the last 99 years – enrollment has increased from 70 students to over 2,000; campus feet of one 10,000-square-foot building has expanded to over 925,000 square foot in 38 buildings; and numerous new academic programs exist today. The growth was built on a solid foundation of “Christ Over All,” and it has allowed JBU, through all the changes, good times and hard times, to endure these 99 years. As we look to the next century, we eagerly anticipate God’s work in future generations of students, faculty and staff. Julie Gumm ’95 is director of University Communications and editor of the Brown Bulletin.

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